Nigerian government to support IITA-CGIAR’s agriculture transformation agenda

Following his assumption of office, IITA Director General and CGIAR Continental Director for Africa, Dr Simeon Ehui, paid a 3-day familiarisation visit to Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The high-profile visit in the company of IITA Board Chair Professor Roel Merckx and Deputy Director General Partnerships for Delivery (DDG-P4D) Dr Kenton Dashiell was aimed at strategic discussions around policy and government engagement during his tenure.Meeting with key government officials in Abuja, Dr Ehui expressed his vision for IITA, CGIAR, and Africa’s food systems to leverage research and science and work with the government of Nigeria and other partners to make an impact.

Speaking with Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima in Abuja, Dr Ehui thanked the government for the support IITA has enjoyed over the years. While reassuring the Vice President of IITA-CGIAR’s commitment to zero hunger in Nigeria and Africa, he said, “IITA-CGIAR can help improve food security, we have the assets, we have hubs in Africa doing top-notch research, and Nigeria should take the lead in strengthening food systems in Africa.”